Ah, spaghetti! It’s the dish that feels like a hug in a bowl, isn’t it? I have this vivid memory of family gatherings at my grandparents’ house, where the table was always overflowing with food, stories, and laughter. The aroma of garlic, tomato, and basil would waft through the air as we sat down together, all eagerly awaiting the moment we could dig into my grandmother’s famous spaghetti. It was never just a meal; it was a celebration of togetherness. That’s why I absolutely adore this Easy Spaghetti for a Crowd recipe. It’s perfect for those big family dinners, casual get-togethers with friends, or even a cozy night in when you want to feel like you’re dining out without any of the fuss. So, let’s dive in and create some of those warm memories!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to whip up for busy weeknights or large gatherings.
• Budget-friendly and satisfying, no one ever leaves the table hungry!
• Comforting flavors that remind you of home-cooked meals.
• Perfectly pairs with a glass of red wine or a crisp salad.
• You can customize it to fit dietary needs or personal tastes.

Ingredients

Gather these simple, yet delicious ingredients to make your spaghetti shine:

• 2 pounds of spaghetti (or your favorite pasta)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil (extra virgin for the best flavor)
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 4 cloves of garlic, minced (fresh garlic adds more punch than powdered)
• 1 pound ground beef (or turkey for a leaner option)
• 2 cans (28 ounces each) crushed tomatoes
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese (optional, but highly recommended!)
• Fresh basil for garnish (optional)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Let’s get that spaghetti bubbling on your stove!

1. In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil for your spaghetti. Once boiling, add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Remember: don’t overcook; we want it perfectly tender with a slight bite!
2. While your pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for about 5 minutes until soft and translucent.
3. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute. The aroma is going to fill your kitchen, and trust me, you’ll be eager to eat!
4. Add the ground beef to the skillet, breaking it apart with your spatula. Cook until browned, about 6-8 minutes. Drain any excess fat if necessary.
5. Stir in the crushed tomatoes and tomato paste, bringing this delightful mixture to a simmer.
6. Add the dried oregano and basil, then season with salt and pepper. Let it simmer for about 15-20 minutes. The longer you let it bubble, the more the flavors will meld together, creating a cozy aroma.
7. Once the spaghetti is done, drain it (be sure to reserve a bit of pasta water just in case) and toss it straight into the sauce. Stir until all the spaghetti strands are coated.
8. If you’re feeling indulgent, mix in the shredded mozzarella cheese at this point, or sprinkle it on top afterward. Let it melt slightly into the hot spaghetti.

Pro Tips & Variations

This spaghetti dish is super versatile, so let’s have some fun with it!

• Veggie lovers: Add in some diced bell peppers, mushrooms, or zucchini when you sauté the onions for extra flavor and nutrition.
• Spicy kick: Toss in a pinch of red pepper flakes for a bit of heat—perfect for when you want to spice things up!
• Herbivores rejoice: Substitute the ground beef with lentils or your favorite plant-based protein for a delicious vegetarian version.
• Serving twist: Instead of tossing everything together, you could layer the spaghetti and sauce in a baking dish and sprinkle cheese on top for a baked spaghetti dish. Just pop it in the oven at 350°F for about 20 minutes until bubbly.

Serving Suggestions

Now, grab your serving bowls (or go family-style and serve from a big pot) and let’s make this meal even cozier! I love serving my Easy Spaghetti for a Crowd with a side of crusty garlic bread and a simple mixed green salad drizzled with balsamic vinaigrette. A nice glass of red wine—preferably a Chianti to echo those Italian vibes—completes the scene perfectly. And for dessert? Maybe a light lemon sorbet or a slice of tiramisu to keep things sweet and refreshing!

Storage Tips

If you happen to have leftovers (which is honestly rare in my house, but I try to be realistic), here’s how to keep your spaghetti tasting delightful:

• Refrigerating: Cool the spaghetti completely before packing it into airtight containers. It will last in the fridge for up to 3-4 days.
• Freezing: Spaghetti freezes beautifully! Just pack it in freezer-safe containers and label them with the date. It will stay fresh for up to 3 months.
• Reheating: To reheat, simply thaw it overnight in the fridge and warm it up in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of pasta water if it’s too thick. You can also microwave it in short intervals, stirring in between, until heated through.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Absolutely! Penne, fusilli, or even gluten-free pasta will work great. Just keep an eye on the cooking time, as it may differ from spaghetti.

How can I make the sauce less acidic?

If you find the sauce too acidic for your taste, stir in a pinch of sugar. It balances the flavors nicely without altering the overall taste.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the sauce ahead and just cook your pasta when ready to serve. Alternatively, you can assemble everything in advance and heat it up just before mealtime.

What toppings do you recommend for serving?

Some fresh grated Parmesan cheese, a sprinkle of fresh parsley or basil, and a dash of red pepper flakes are all wonderful options. Get creative with your favorite toppings!

Conclusion

And there you have it, my dear friends! This Easy Spaghetti for a Crowd is not just a recipe; it’s a chance to gather those you love around the table, share stories, and create unforgettable moments. I’d love to hear how yours turns out or if you added any special twists! Feel free to drop a comment below or share your spaghetti adventures. Happy cooking!

Delicious Easy Spaghetti for a Crowd Quick Flavorful Recipe

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• Author: antaki
• Total Time: 55 minutes
• Yield: 8 servings 1x

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Description

Whip up a quick flavorful spaghetti dish for gatherings with this easy recipe Perfect for impressing a crowd without the hassle 155 chars

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

2 pounds of spaghetti

1 tablespoon olive oil

1 medium onion, finely chopped

4 cloves of garlic, minced

1 pound ground beef

2 cans (28 ounces each) crushed tomatoes

2 tablespoons tomato paste

1 teaspoon dried oregano

1 teaspoon dried basil

Salt and pepper to taste

2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese (optional)

Fresh basil for garnish (optional)

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Instructions

In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil for your spaghetti. Once boiling, add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente.

While your pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for about 5 minutes until soft and translucent.

Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute.

Add the ground beef to the skillet, breaking it apart with your spatula. Cook until browned, about 6-8 minutes. Drain any excess fat if necessary.

Stir in the crushed tomatoes and tomato paste, bringing this mixture to a simmer.

Add the dried oregano and basil, then season with salt and pepper. Let it simmer for about 15-20 minutes.

Once the spaghetti is done, drain it (reserve a bit of pasta water) and toss it straight into the sauce.

If you’re feeling indulgent, mix in the shredded mozzarella cheese at this point, or sprinkle it on top afterward.

Notes

A comforting and budget-friendly spaghetti recipe perfect for family gatherings and casual get-togethers. Create warm memories around the dinner table with this delicious dish.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 40 minutes
• Category: Main Course
• Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 8 servings
• Calories: 450
• Sugar: 6g
• Fat: 16g
• Carbohydrates: 60g
• Fiber: 4g
• Protein: 25g

Keywords: spaghetti, easy spaghetti, spaghetti recipe, Italian food, crowd-pleaser, family dinner